Well - I found and purchased a 401 - 75 Waggie. Now it is time for the rebuild. I am thinking a low rpm torque motor -I would like to hear some differing views ? I now am also putting in the d300 and tf727 - 4:56 gears with amc20 and d30. What do you think ? Is it time to take the lead out of my shoe ?

A 401 make good low end torque, so you can use a fairly large cam and not lose low RPM torque. Here is the combo I am running now. Stock rods, and crank. Forged stock replacement pistons( aprox 10:1 compression). Mild bowl ported heads. Stainless valves. Competition Cams 280 magnum cam. Performer intake. 750 vacuum secondary Holley. I still have to do the oiling modifications, and future plans call for roller rockers, and an adjustable valvetrain. This engine pulls hard from idle past 6000 RPM, and I can idle it down to 500 RPM without stalling. When it is running right I can stab the throttle in 4th gear low range from an idle, and not have a stumble. I have also found it has to much torque for a stock replacement 10.5 inch clutch. You are making a great choice, and you won't be dissapointed.

Ray

I don't know much about the 401, but I would imagine the stock axles might be a little weak for that kind of a torque powerhouse.

Yea on the weak axles - I will try to baby them with the 33's I am running - if not - I guess it will be time for the $$$$ axles. I know I need em now but again $$$ - a little at a time. Had a CC 280 in a 351W and it worked well - FYRBALL do you have your cam advanced or straight up? Also - for a low rpm engine will cast Badgers do OK?

The cam is advancned 4 degrees. cast piston are fine for low RPM. The only reason I have forged piston, is because of the possability of N2O later on.

Ray